Islamabad – On Friday morning, former prime minister and cricket legend Imran Khan was escorted back to Adiala prison after completing a medical examination at a private hospital in the capital. The move followed a Supreme Court order that required Khan to be examined by a team of qualified physicians, including an ophthalmologist and a cardiologist.
Court order and medical board
The Supreme Court had earlier directed that a medical board be formed to assess Khan’s health. The board was to include his personal doctors as well as his sister, Dr. Uzma Khan, who was present throughout the examination. The court also reinstated weekly family visits, allowing his relatives to see him in person.
Government statement
Information Minister Attaullah Tarar posted on X that Khan was taken to the hospital after midnight in compliance with the court order. He said the medical team declared Khan “medically fit” after a detailed evaluation. The minister added that the government ensures prisoners receive appropriate medical care and are transferred to hospitals when necessary.
Family concerns
Khan’s sons had earlier told CNN they were worried about their father’s health, noting that they had been unable to visit him in prison. They also claimed that Khan had lost most of the vision in his right eye. The family’s concerns were echoed by senior PTI leader Zulfikar Bukhari, who described the hospital transfer as a “constitutional obligation” rather than a political concession.
Political background
Imran Khan led Pakistan from 2018 until his removal in a parliamentary no‑confidence vote in 2022. He was convicted in 2023 on charges of corruption and revealing state secrets, a verdict his supporters describe as politically motivated retaliation for his opposition to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s government.
Implications
The Supreme Court’s intervention underscores the judiciary’s role in safeguarding the health rights of incarcerated individuals, a principle that aligns with constitutional protections. While Khan’s supporters view the hospital visit as a victory for his right to proper medical care, critics argue that the episode highlights ongoing political tensions between the PTI and the current administration.
Next steps
With the court‑ordered medical board completed, Khan will remain in custody at Adiala prison pending any further legal developments. Observers will watch for any additional court rulings or appeals that could affect his status or the broader political landscape in Pakistan.
Original reporting: KEYT (Ventura/Santa Barbara) — read the source article.
